Designate a place for studying and use it solely for that purpose. Seek a place that is free of outside distractions and allows you to sit comfortably and work. Examples of possible locations include your desk, a quiet area in your home, the library or the study hall at school. Do not study on your bed as this can cause you to fall asleep. Additionally, do not study in loud areas where others are socializing or where there is a television. Inform your friends and family that you are off-limits when in your study area.
While some students reserve studying for the end of the day or rely on late night study sessions, according to Dartmouth College, an hour of daytime study is worth two hours of nighttime study. Accordingly, try to schedule the majority of your study sessions during the day. If you cannot complete all of your studying in the daytime, determine your most challenging courses and study those first. Divide your study time into manageable sections. Study for 20 to 50 minutes and take a five- to 10-minute break before beginning again. Southern Methodist University recommends students engage in two to three hours of self study for every hour in class.
Successful study requires more on the part of the student than just reading. Students must engage in active study to absorb materials fully. An active study session is one where the student asks himself questions as he reviews the material, takes and reviews notes as he studies and discusses key concepts with classmates and the course instructor when possible. Additionally, apply the concepts you are learning in your studies to your daily life to familiarize and increase your understanding.
Students should take advantage of every opportunity to gain additional knowledge of coursework. Join a study group or arrange one with your classmates. Take advantage of any tutoring services your school offers. Review and complete any extra credit or additional study materials the instructor provides. Do not hesitate to speak to your instructor or ask questions during class if you miss or do not understand any of the material.